How to Heal After Root Canal Treatment

Posted January 12, 2016.

Just like after any other surgery, your body needs to heal after root canal treatment. If it doesn’t heal properly, your smile could be in grave danger. So, to help you fully recover after your therapy, we recommend doing the following things:

Take prescribed medicationsMedications are known to help with the pain, discomfort, and soreness you might feel after surgery. Because of this, your doctor will prescribe a certain medication to you. Please take this medicine as recommended. If your dentist or endodontist has not given you prescriptions, you can use over-the-counter pain medication, like Advil or Motrin.

Avoid using that toothIf your doctor has yet to restore your tooth by placing a dental crown over it or filling it with a dental filling, please do not chew with that tooth until he does. This will help you avoid recontamination and infection.

Brush and flossMake sure you brush and floss like normal so you can keep your smile healthy and clean. For specific instructions on brushing and flossing, please talk to your dentist or endodontist.

Watch out for problemsIf you experience any of the following problems, please call your dentist or endodontist as soon as possible:

· Oral swelling· An allergic reaction to the medication· The return of original symptoms· An uneven bite

RestResting is very important and we recommend taking it easy for at least 24 hours after your treatment. Resting will help you and your smile recuperate and heal. If your doctor recommends resting for a longer period of time, please do as he says.

The healing process is important and we strongly recommend doing these five things if you want to restore the health and function of your smile. We care about you and your oral health and we want to help you in any way we can. So, if you have any questions or concerns, please call San Tomas Signature Smiles at 408-378-2890 and schedule an appointment.